The trial for the murder of Dimitris Andronikos continues with the testimony of the main witness, Yaser Arar, who has been sentenced to life imprisonment. Arar, who was involved in the murder, has entered the witness protection program and stated that he was informed they were going to scare Andronikos, not to kill him. Other defendants are now on trial who have not pleaded guilty, and their defense challenged the credibility of the witness. The proceedings were held behind closed doors.
New fires have broken out in the Paphos region, with the Fire Service and the Forestry Department working to extinguish them. The first fire is in a difficult area between Mousere and Marona. Additionally, a second fire is raging near the community of Salamiou, while the third is close to Archimandrita. The forces are battling the flames with the appropriate vehicles.
The Department of Antiquities handed over two ancient coins discovered during routine package inspections. The first coin is a silver stater from Lycia, while the second is an ancient Cypriot coin from the Ptolemaic period. Both coins are considered valuable and significant for history. The cooperation between the Department of Antiquities and the Customs Department was crucial in combating illegal trafficking of antiquities.
On Sunday, March 30, 2025, clocks will move forward by one hour for the start of daylight saving time, which will last until October 26, 2025. Daylight saving time was first implemented in Cyprus in 1976 and is mandatory for all EU member states. The purpose of this change is to reduce energy consumption and make better use of natural light. This regulation also facilitates market operations and commercial transactions across Europe.
Progressive won the student elections at the University of Cyprus, reclaiming its top position in the student community for the first time in 22 years. They secured 1,433 votes, corresponding to 43.40% and 9 seats. The previously dominant faction, Protoporia, finished second with 1,419 votes (42.97% and 9 seats). ELAM came in third with 136 votes and one seat.
The DISY party opposes the bill that lifts the hiring ban in the public sector, arguing it will lead to uncontrolled hiring. Annita Dimitriou points out that the government should focus on supporting vulnerable groups and societal needs instead of making unassessed hires. She also expresses concern about long-term fiscal stability and warns against returning to past practices. Additionally, she highlights the importance of digital transformation for saving public funds.
In Limassol, a girl under the age of 10 reported her father for sexual abuse. The young girl confided in a close relative, who then alerted the authorities. The father has been arrested and presented in court to request his detention. This case comes at a time when there is shock from other child abuse cases in Cyprus.
Starting April 1, the VAT on electricity prices will be reduced from 19% to 9% for 494,000 household consumers, as announced by President Nikos Christodoulides. This reduction will last for one year, and an average household is expected to save around €120 annually. The Cabinet has approved the decree which has been published in the Official Gazette. The estimated revenue loss for the state from this reduction is €40 million.
A shocking case of abuse involving five children in a village in Larnaca has come to light, with both the father and mother arrested for their cruel actions. The children suffered physical, psychological, and sexual abuse, notably the eldest daughter who reported repeated sexual exploitation by her stepfather. The report was made after the eldest girl disclosed their horrifying living conditions at school. The five children are now under the protection of the relevant authorities.
Lena Drosaki has accused Peter Filipidis of psychological pressure and sexual harassment experienced throughout her career. She reported that the actor made lewd phone calls and pressured her to acquiesce to his inappropriate demands. The testimonies are included in a legal file and highlight the fear and intimidation Drosaki faced. This case raises serious concerns about behavior in the acting community.
Two brothers aged 16 and 23 were arrested following a break-in at a primary school in Limassol. The suspects confessed to their involvement in the destruction and theft of items from the school. The estimated damage is around 500 euros. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the case.
Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at improving law enforcement in Washington, citing the need to address crime. A new task force will focus on all types of offenses, including minor violations. While violent crime has decreased, there has been an increase in homicides. The city's mayor expresses concern over federal interventions that undermine local development efforts.
The municipality of Paralimni expresses concern over seven migrant accommodation structures located in the tourist area. Their presence has led to an increase in criminal activities, such as burglaries and thefts. Authorities are urged to remove these structures to ensure tourist development and the safety of visitors. The municipality also calls for enhanced policing and protective measures for residents.
A 33-year-old woman paid €12,000 to be trafficked illegally to Cyprus. She was deceived by a 50-year-old man who presented her with counterfeit passports. The police are investigating the case for criminal offenses. The man has been arrested and investigations are ongoing.
The police are investigating a burglary and vandalism case at an elementary school in Limassol that occurred on the night of March 27, 2025. Two suspects, aged 23 and 16, were arrested near the school with burglary tools and stolen items. Extensive damages are estimated at around €500. Investigations are ongoing by the Crime Investigation Department.
A lucky winner in Paphos won €100,000 in the Joker lottery by matching five numbers. The drawn numbers were 7, 13, 33, 43, 44, and the joker number is 17. The next draw will see at least €1,000,000 shared among the winners of the first category. Draws occur every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday at 22:00.
Vladimir Putin has proposed the formation of a transitional government in Ukraine aimed at holding elections before signing crucial agreements. He claims such a government could earn the trust of the people and initiate peace talks to resolve the conflict. However, U.S. representatives emphasize that the governance of Ukraine should be determined by Ukrainians according to their constitution. Putin asserts that Russian forces are steadily progressing toward achieving their strategic objectives.
In 2024, Cyprus was found to be slightly below the EU average in terms of GDP per capita, at 95% of the average. Inequalities in living standards within the EU persist, with ten countries exceeding the average. Greece ranks near the bottom at 70% of the EU average. Luxembourg has the highest GDP per capita in the EU.
The stakeholders in Larnaca are anticipating President Christodoulides' visit, during which 14 requests regarding important projects will be discussed. A major priority is the establishment of university schools, such as the School of Marine Sciences. The Larnaca Municipality is requesting the Ministry of Finance's approval for funding and licensing of public buildings. Additionally, there are requests for the redevelopment of the former refinery site and the enhancement of municipal infrastructure.
The police face criticism from the Parliament over two actions related to fines from the photo enforcement system. Lawmakers express concerns about the legality of informing citizens and the implications for their rights. The Legal Service defends the procedure, arguing that it is voluntary. The issue will be discussed in the Legal Committee at Parliament.
The discussion in the Health Committee regarding the bill for Rehabilitation Centers revealed significant disagreements among stakeholders. Despite four years of consultations, opinions remain divided. The Health Minister emphasized the importance of licensing and monitoring these centers to improve health services. The bill will proceed to the Plenary only if it receives support from the Parliament.
Cyprus is facing a serious water crisis and is working to enhance desalination infrastructure. There are 53 proposals for floating desalination units to be installed in strategic locations. These units can quickly produce drinking water at a reduced cost. The evaluation of the proposals is advanced, with some promising installation in less than six months.
With just days left before the deadline set by the government, football teams are scrambling to gather funds to settle tax debts. Four teams need to pay a total of €5.3 million by Monday. Despite their efforts, fully settling this amount seems challenging. The total tax debts of the clubs exceed €35.6 million.
During the informal conference in Geneva, Ersin Tatar expressed his opposition to the appointment of an envoy, but it was still decided that one would be appointed. He requested that the envoy's role be limited to discussing confidence-building measures. Despite the outcomes of Geneva, Tatar shows determination in advancing collaboration proposals. Negotiators from both sides are preparing for further meetings aimed at progressing the Cyprus issue.